Miami, FL – July 11, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in the annals of professional boxing as entrepreneur Matthew Attalla orchestrated the first-ever sanctioned World Boxing Council (WBC) title fight to take place within the intimate setting of a gym. This groundbreaking event, dubbed ‘The BOXR GAMES,’ shattered traditional norms, moving the sport from vast arenas to a space rooted in raw dedication and community spirit, embodying Attalla’s vision to disrupt and revitalize boxing.
A Vision Realized: Boxing’s Roots Reimagined
Matthew Attalla, the Australian entrepreneur and founder of Miami’s renowned BOXR fitness facility, has long harbored a vision that extended beyond mere athletic training. His goal was to cultivate a unique culture centered on community, innovation, and a return to the fundamental grit of boxing. “This was never about building a gym,” Attalla stated, “It was about building culture. It was about community. It was about disrupting the industry and breaking barriers in a sport that’s been stuck in tradition for far too long.” His philosophy emphasizes bringing boxing back to its origins – “up close, raw, real,” and uniting the city in an unprecedented manner.
The BOXR facility itself is a testament to Attalla’s ambition. Launched in 2020, it has grown from a small space within his apartment to a sprawling 50,000-square-foot complex that serves as a comprehensive lifestyle and fitness hub. This historic event, approved by WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, utilized the main boxing ring within this state-of-the-art facility, transforming it into a stage for a significant championship bout and showcasing Attalla’s innovative approach to the sport. This news from Miami sends ripples through the boxing world, highlighting a new potential blueprint for major fights.
Elite Talents Clash and Debut at The BOXR GAMES
The main event saw Argentina’s Alberto Palmetta, ranked #12 in the WBA welterweight division, go head-to-head with Mexico’s Christian Gomez for the WBC Latino Continental Title. After a thrilling contest, Palmetta emerged victorious via unanimous decision, a significant win that underscored the legitimacy and competitive intensity of a fight held in such an unconventional venue.
Beyond the championship bout, The BOXR GAMES featured a card brimming with rising talent. Ermal Hadribeaj, an undefeated contender with a record of 21 wins and 1 draw, ranked among the top 10 in the Super Welterweight Division, engaged in a high-octane sparring match against undefeated prospect Lucas Dos Santos, who holds a professional record of 10-0. The energy was further amplified by the professional debut of Kenzell Williams. Trained by boxing legend Antonio Tarver, Williams wasted no time making his mark, securing a spectacular first-round knockout and claiming a coveted BOXR Championship Belt.
The event also served as a platform for top amateur boxers from across Florida to showcase their skills in officially refereed sparring sessions, providing them with invaluable experience in a professional environment.
Celebrating Community Heroes and Future Champions
A heartwarming and unique aspect of The BOXR GAMES was the exhibition bout featuring members of the Miami Police Department and Miami Fire Department. These everyday heroes stepped into the ring to spar, earning championship medals and widespread acclaim for their courage and performance, embodying the spirit of community service and camaraderie.
Matthew Attalla’s commitment to community was further evident through his deep engagement with the Police Athletic League (PAL) program. Leveraging his relationships with city leaders, Attalla ensured local youth had access to boxing through this initiative, offering them workouts, mentorship, and a safe, empowering space to grow. “Giving the next generation a moment like this, where they can see the sport up close, feel the energy, and be part of something bigger, that’s what it’s all about,” Attalla remarked. The event also highlighted the power of family, with parents and children participating together, reinforcing the idea of boxing as a means to foster stronger bonds and shared experiences across generations.
The BOXR Ecosystem: More Than Just a Gym
Attalla’s entrepreneurial drive has shaped BOXR into more than just a boxing gym; it’s a comprehensive lifestyle facility. By integrating various fitness disciplines, athletic competitions, and even amenities like a barbershop and smoothie bar, BOXR aims to be a holistic destination for well-being and personal growth. His success in building this brand in Miami positions him as a significant figure in the fitness and entrepreneurial landscape. The success of The BOXR GAMES is a direct reflection of Attalla’s vision to create a vibrant ecosystem that supports athletes, fosters community, and pioneers new approaches to the sport of boxing. This particular news story from Miami is a strong editorial piece on the future of combat sports.
A New Era for Boxing Dawns in Miami
Matthew Attalla’s historic staging of a sanctioned WBC title fight within the BOXR gym is a powerful statement about the evolution of boxing. By returning to the sport’s intimate roots while embracing modern innovation, Attalla has not only created a memorable event but has also opened a new chapter for how professional boxing can be presented. The BOXR GAMES served as a vibrant celebration of athletic talent, community spirit, and the enduring power of boxing to inspire and unite. The editorial implications of this event suggest a growing trend towards unique, experience-driven sporting spectacles that prioritize connection and raw passion over traditional grandeur.
